Through Andrea’s window, autumn whispers its golden hues, a fleeting reminder of calm before the holiday chaos. The season's ribbon-wrapped whirlwind pulls us in every direction—tasks pile high, and we forget ourselves in the bustle.

Other days, we’re too worried, stressed, angry, or tired for all that pressure. So for those in this space, perhaps we can spend late October (and November and December . . .) hovering around appreciation? 

At Connecting Our Stories, we find ourselves moved by the words of Lyanda Lynn Haupt, a naturalist writer, who beautifully captures the essence of this gift.

We may do things to take care of ourselves, but what do we do to be ourselves?

While there aren’t enough inspo quotes in the world to keep us from doubtful moments and days (weeks?), these have helped us move forward in faith.

Only one year into grad school, I already feel more confident in my abilities and my knowledge. I am more assured of who I am. I trust the process now more than ever. My confusion led me to be at one of my life's most curious, exciting, and growth-oriented points.

Connecting Our Stories team members recognize the profound impact women have made throughout history and on our lives.

At first, I worried it may be too reputationally risky to frame my newly-founded company as an act of love. What would potential clients think? What would LinkedIn colleagues who don’t know me very well think? Does “love” sound too soft? Not productive or innovative enough? Not thought-leader material?

. . . ‘story’ is a powerful tool. In many cases where logic or data or facts can’t pierce a set resolve, story can. Because it is within story where even the most disparate people — or even, say, a human and an alien — might find common understanding.

As I reflect on the new year, I’m wondering about the backdrop where I will do my best work in 2024. Where will I reflect, dream, collaborate, and celebrate?

A strong communications strategy has the potential to amplify, activate, and scale the work you do.

Good storytelling always begins with listening. Or even more fundamentally, with paying attention.

The most memorable thing I learned from my research colleagues was this: The most devastating idea in research is that the study, report, or brief will sit on the shelf and not have an impact.

What is less common, and what Connecting Our Stories offers, is a grassroots approach to developing a communications strategy.